Rhetoric in Daily Life

           Our world is constantly trying to persuade us. Buy this type of makeup, listen to this kind of music, attend this college. Everywhere we look there is some sort of rhetoric, influencing our decisions. There are several different ways that rhetoric is played out, whether it be in the clothing people wear, the advertisements in magazines, or even a political cartoon. 
           When people dress a certain way, or tattoo and pierce their bodies, they are trying to be perceived in a particular way. For example, when going to a job interview, no one is going to show up wearing sweatpants a hoodie. They want to exude a positive image of themselves by dressing in a professional and appropriate manner. This is a great example of rhetoric. By dressing appropriately for a job interview, this person is trying to persuade the interviewer of their adequacy and professionalism. Similarly, tattoos and piercings are a way for people to persuade or influence people's opinions about them. If someone is covered from head to toe in tattoos, they are certainly trying to persuade others of their uniqueness. 

           Political cartoons also use rhetoric to influence people's decisions. They use cleverly drawn cartoons and dialogue to get their opinions out about current events. The cartoon I included below shows how Bush's campaign sign was carefully constructed to persuade people of the adequacy of Bush and Cheney. Many other political cartoons dehumanize politicians as well to show their opinion. For example, in this cartoon of Obama, you can clearly see the cartoonist is making him look goofy, with big ears and big lips. If they favor someone, however, you can tell the cartoon of them looks much more realistic. They also use certain colors and backgrounds to make their point stronger, as well.
           No matter where you look, there is rhetoric trying to sway your opinions. Movies, TV shows, cartoons, clothing, all are making impressions on you all the time. You may not realize it, (I know I never paid attention) but these things are constantly causing you to form new opinions and re-evaluate your thinking.